LEMOORE -- One in eight women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. And over 40,000 women will die of breast cancer in the United States this year.

The first-annual Bunco for Breast Cancer Fundraiser, hosted by Lemoore resident Rosie Madrigal, on Saturday fought back against those odds by raising $865 for breast cancer research.

"This is very personal to me," said Madrigal, 47, a breast cancer survivor who has two daughters. "I don't want anyone to go through breast cancer."

The fundraiser took place in Madrigal's backyard, which was decorated in a show of pink -- from balloons, to cups and plates, to flatware.

Proceeds will be donated to the New York-based Breast Cancer Research Foundation, which identifies top scientists conducting the most innovative breast cancer research at leading medical centers worldwide, and awards them grants to explore novel strategies and unconventional directions aimed at preventing and curing breast cancer.

"We need to raise as much as possible," said Pini Etchegoin, 46, a secretary from Lemoore, "to keep researchers looking for cures around the clock until there's a cure."

More than 20 players -- some breast cancer survivors, others with loved ones who have faced breast cancer -- flocked to Madrigal's home to enjoy an afternoon of fellowship, while at the same time raise money for a worthy cause.

Some said they feel that a cure for breast cancer is within arm's reach.

"I think there will be a cure in the next five to 10 years," said Tracy Verdegaal, 42, a special education aide from Hanford. "I think it's great that there's new research going on for breast cancer."

The reporter can be reached at 583-2423.

(Oct. 19, 2008)